Published July 13, 2025

Best Greenville, SC Attractions if You’re Visiting

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Written by J. Michael Manley

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Greenville, SC, combines walkable downtown charm, beautiful parks, fun museums, and easy access to nature. Whether you're here for a weekend or a whole week, you’ll find plenty to do. Looking for where to go in Greenville SC? These top spots offer something for every visitor.

 

Best Greenville, SC Attractions

Falls Park on the Reedy River

Address: 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: (864) 232‑2273

This beautiful downtown park features a 28-foot waterfall and the iconic Liberty Bridge, a walking bridge suspended over the falls. It’s a perfect spot for photos, a peaceful stroll, or a picnic. You’ll also find gardens, walking paths, and a relaxed riverside vibe just a block from Main Street.

Falls Park


Swamp Rabbit Trail & Trailside Attractions

Address: Trail runs from Downtown Greenville to Travelers Rest
Phone: (864) 233‑0461 (Visitor Center)

The Swamp Rabbit Trail is a paved multi-use path stretching about 19 miles through the city and into the nearby mountains. Rent a bike downtown and ride north to Travelers Rest for cafes, local markets, and green scenery. Along the way you’ll hit the popular Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery, perfect for a snack or coffee stop.

Swamp Rabbit Trail


The Peace Center

Address: 300 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: (864) 467‑3000

If you’re into theater, live music, or Broadway-style shows, the Peace Center is your go-to. This performing arts venue hosts concerts, symphony events, plays, and more throughout the year. It’s right next to Falls Park, so catching a show after a walk downtown is easy.

Peace Center


Greenville County Museum of Art (GCMA)

Address: 420 College St, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: (864) 271‑7570

Art lovers will enjoy GCMA’s impressive collection of American and Southern art, including works by Andrew Wyeth and South Carolina’s own William H. Johnson. The museum is free and offers rotating exhibits and local favorites. Located on Heritage Green, it’s a calm and educational stop right downtown.

GCMA


Roper Mountain Science Center & Planetarium

Address: 402 Roper Mountain Rd, Greenville, SC 29615
Phone: (864) 355‑8900

This hands-on science center is great for families or curious visitors. Explore exhibits on space, nature, and geology, ride the miniature train, or catch a show in the planetarium. They also host evening telescope events and seasonal planet-viewing nights.

Roper Mountain Observatory


Greenville Zoo

Address: 150 Cleveland Park Dr, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: (864) 467‑4300

A smaller zoo that’s easy to walk in a couple of hours, perfect if you’re visiting with kids or looking for a low-key outing. You’ll see red pandas, giraffes, monkeys, and reptiles in naturalistic exhibits. It’s full of shade trees, benches, and quiet areas to relax.

Greenville zoo


Visitor Tips

  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall bring mild weather and fewer crowds. Downtown festivals are popular in May and October—check the city calendar.

  • Tickets & admission: Most spots are free or low-cost. The Peace Center and science center may need advance tickets, especially on weekends.

  • Parking: Falls Park, GCMA, and the zoo have available free or metered parking. The Swamp Rabbit Trail has public parking at trailheads and downtown bike rental spots.

  • Dress and gear: Wear comfy shoes if you plan to walk downtown or ride the trail. Bring a bottle of water and wear layers if you’ll be outside all day.

  • Pet Friendly: The Swamp Rabbit Trail and Falls Park welcome leashed pets. Other sites may only allow service animals. Please check individual rules.

  • Multiple visits in one day: Downtown spots like Falls Park, GCMA, and the Peace Center are walkable. You can rent a bike and hit the trail, then head to Roper Mountain or the zoo. It makes for a full, enjoyable day.

Greenville, SC blends beautiful green spaces, art, food, and easy adventures. Whether you’re biking the rails, catching a show, or exploring museums, it’s a city that feels both relaxing and alive. Ready to start planning your trip? Check out these top spots and enjoy discovering where to go in Greenville, SC for a memorable visit.

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